Types of Chemical Reactions


There are five types of chemical reactions: combination, decomposition, single-replacement, double-replacement, and combustion.

But why should we care?

Without knowing what type of reaction an experiment will result in, your lab assignment could be deadly. The mixture might explode, spark, or even exude toxic fumes. A midday trip to the emergency room doesn’t sound too nice, does it?





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A combination reaction is a chemical reaction where 2 types of chemicals are combined to make a third. It is also called a synthesis reaction.

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So the compound calcium carbonate yields Calcium Oxide and, separately, Carbon Dioxide. This is considered complete oxidation because it resulted in Carbon Dioxide rather than monoxide, which is deadly and considered incomplete oxidation.




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A decomposition reaction is where one substance breaks down into two substances.

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In this decomposition reaction, Calcium Carbonate decomposes into Calcium Oxide and Carbon Dioxide.


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A single-replacement reaction is a reaction where an element reacts with a compound and it is replaced with another element.


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Single-replacement occurs as the Copper ion and Silver Nitrate yield Copper(II) Nitrate.



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A double-replacement reaction is an exchange of positive ions in a compound. Signs include the production of gas, precipitate, or molecular compounds.


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Silver Nitrate and Sodium Chloride have a double replacement reaction where the A(Ag) combines with the D(Cl) and the C(Na) combines with the B(NO3), therefore yielding Silver Chloride and Sodium Nitrate.


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A combustion reaction is where a substance reacts with oxygen with the release of heat and usually the production of a flame.


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Example Problems


Balance.pngAnswers to problems are here

H2(g) + O2(g) ----> H2O(g)
Ag2O(cr) ----> Ag(cr) + O2(g)
H2SO4(aq) + NaOH(aq) ----> Na2SO4(aq) + H2O(l)
CH4(g) + O2(g) ----> H2O(g) + CO2(g)